Multi-zone media system and method for providing multi-zone media

ABSTRACT

A multi-zone media system and method for providing multi-zone media. As a non-limiting example, various aspects of this disclosure provide a system and method that flexibly presents media content (e.g., audio content) to a user as the user moves throughout a premises.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS/INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

The present application is related to U.S. application Ser. No.17/726,019, filed concurrently herewith, titled “System and Method forProviding User Location-based Multi-zone Media,” the contents of whichare hereby incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

[Not Applicable]

SEQUENCE LISTING

[Not Applicable]

MICROFICHE/COPYRIGHT REFERENCE

[Not Applicable]

BACKGROUND

Present systems and methods for presenting audio, for example presentingaudio to a user as the user moves throughout a premises, are inadequate.Further limitations and disadvantages of conventional and traditionalapproaches will become apparent to one of skill in the art, throughcomparison of such approaches with the present disclosure as set forthin the remainder of the present application with reference to thedrawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings are included to provide a furtherunderstanding of the present disclosure, and are incorporated in andconstitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrateexamples of the present disclosure and, together with the description,serve to explain various principles of the present disclosure. In thedrawings:

FIG. 1 is a diagram of an example multi-zone media environment, inaccordance with various aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a flow diagram of an example method for providing multi-zonemedia, in accordance with various aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3 is a flow diagram of another example method for providingmulti-zone media, in accordance with various aspects of the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 4 is a flow diagram of an additional example method for providingmulti-zone media, in accordance with various aspects of the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram of an example media output device, inaccordance with various aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram of an example media controller, in accordancewith various aspects of the present disclosure.

SUMMARY

Various aspects of this disclosure provide a multi-zone media system andmethod for providing multi-zone media. As a non-limiting example,various aspects of this disclosure provide a system and method thatflexibly presents media content (e.g., audio content) to a user as theuser moves throughout a premises.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF VARIOUS ASPECTS OF THE DISCLOSURE

The following discussion presents various aspects of the presentdisclosure by providing various examples thereof. Such examples arenon-limiting, and thus the scope of various aspects of the presentdisclosure should not necessarily be limited by any particularcharacteristics of the provided examples. In the following discussion,the phrases “for example,” “e.g.,” and “exemplary” are non-limiting andare generally synonymous with “by way of example and not limitation,”“for example and not limitation,” and the like.

As utilized herein the terms “circuits” and “circuitry” refer tophysical electronic components (i.e. hardware) and any software and/orfirmware (“code”) which may configure the hardware, be executed by thehardware, and or otherwise be associated with the hardware. As usedherein, for example, a particular processor and memory may comprise afirst “circuit” when executing a first one or more lines of code and maycomprise a second “circuit” when executing a second one or more lines ofcode. Similarly, the term “module” may be utilized herein to refer to apure hardware module and/or a hybrid hardware/software module (e.g., aprocessor that operates in accordance with software instructions storedin a memory or other non-transitory medium).

As utilized herein, “and/or” means any one or more of the items in thelist joined by “and/or”. As an example, “x and/or y” means any elementof the three-element set {(x), (y), (x, y)}. In other words, “x and/ory” means “one or both of x and y.” As another example, “x, y, and/or z”means any element of the seven-element set {(x), (y), (z), (x, y), (x,z), (y, z), (x, y, z)}. In other words, “x, y and/or z” means “one ormore of x, y, and z.” As utilized herein, the term “exemplary” meansserving as a non-limiting example, instance, or illustration. Asutilized herein, the terms “e.g.” and “for example” set off lists of oneor more non-limiting examples, instances, or illustrations. As utilizedherein, circuitry is “operable” to perform a function whenever thecircuitry comprises the necessary hardware and code (if any isnecessary) to perform the function, regardless of whether performance ofthe function is disabled or not enabled (e.g., by a user-configurablesetting, factory trim, etc.).

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particularexamples only and is not intended to be limiting of the disclosure. Asused herein, the singular forms are intended to include the plural formsas well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will befurther understood that the terms “comprises,” “includes,” “has,”“comprising,” “including,” “having,” and the like when used in thisspecification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps,operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude thepresence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps,operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.

It will be understood that, although the terms first, second, etc. maybe used herein to describe various elements, these elements should notbe limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish oneelement from another element. Thus, for example, a first element, afirst component or a first section discussed below could be termed asecond element, a second component or a second section without departingfrom the teachings of the present disclosure. Similarly, various spatialterms, such as “upper,” “lower,” “side,” and the like, may be used indistinguishing one element from another element in a relative manner. Itshould be understood, however, that components may be oriented indifferent manners, for example a device may be turned sideways so thatits “top” surface is facing horizontally and its “side” surface isfacing vertically, without departing from the teachings of the presentdisclosure.

Various aspects of the present disclosure comprise a multi-zone mediasystem and method for providing multi-zone media. For example, variousaspects of this disclosure provide a system and method that flexiblypresents media content (e.g., audio content) to a user as the user movesthroughout a premises.

The above and other aspects of the present disclosure will be describedin or be apparent from the following description of various exampleimplementations.

FIG. 1 is a diagram of an example multi-zone media environment 100, inaccordance with various aspects of the present disclosure.

The example environment 100 comprises a variety of loudspeakers andgroups thereof, spaced throughout an example premises (e.g., a home,office, campus, etc.). A campus implementation may, for example, includeoutdoor areas as well as indoor areas associated with one or morebuildings. The discussion of various examples herein will often refer tothe example environment 100. Though the example environment 100 isgenerally presented in the context of audio media presentation, itshould be understood that the example environment 100 and all examplespresented herein readily extend to the presentation of other forms ofmedia (e.g., video media). The example environment 100 may, for example,comprise a first group of loudspeakers 110, which may also be referredto herein as a zone. The first group of loudspeakers 110 may, forexample, correspond to a first area (or audio zone) of a premises, forexample a family room, media room, etc. The first group of loudspeakers110 may, for example, comprise a central media controller 111. Thecentral media controller 111 may comprise characteristics of any of avariety of central media controllers (e.g., an entertainment center,audio receiver, home media hub, home audio server, general purposecomputer operating in accordance with software instructions, an Internetmedia access point or content server, etc.). The central mediacontroller 111 may generally, for example, manage the presentation ofmedia content throughout the example environment 100. Though the exampleenvironment 100 is generally shown and discussed as having a centralmedia controller 111, it should be understood that the environment 100may also operate in a mesh-type or decentralized configuration. Forexample, as will be discussed herein, any of the media presentationdevices (e.g., loudspeakers, etc.) discussed herein may perform any orall of the control functionality discussed herein.

The first group of loudspeakers 110 may also, for example, comprise afirst (e.g., front left) loudspeaker 112, a second (e.g., front right)loudspeaker 113, a third (e.g., rear right) loudspeaker 114, and afourth (e.g., rear left) loudspeaker 115. The central media controller111 may also, for example, comprise a loudspeaker. Each of the firstgroup of loudspeakers 110 may, for example, be operated independently ormay be operated as a single group. Each of the first group ofloudspeakers 110 may, for example, operate under the control of thecentral media controller 111 and/or operate autonomously. Note that thedesignations of the loudspeakers as left, right, front, rear, center,etc. may, but need not, refer to audio spatial arrangements generallysynonymous with various loudspeaker arrangements (e.g., stereo, surroundsound, monaural, etc.).

The example environment 100 may also, for example, comprise a secondgroup of loudspeakers 120. The second group of loudspeakers 120 may, forexample, comprise a first (e.g., right) loudspeaker 121 and a second(e.g., left) loudspeaker 122. The second group of loudspeakers 120 may,for example, correspond to a second area of a premises, for example akitchen or dining room, a break room, etc. Each of the second group ofloudspeakers 120 may, for example, be operated independently or may beoperated as a single group. Each of the second group of loudspeakers 120may, for example, operate under the control of the central mediacontroller 111 and/or operate autonomously. Also for example, any or allof the second group of loudspeakers 120 may operate with any or all ofthe other loudspeakers in the environment 100.

The example environment 100 may additionally, for example, comprise athird group of loudspeakers 130. The third group of loudspeakers 130may, for example, comprise a first (e.g., central) loudspeaker 131, asecond (e.g., right) loudspeaker 132, and a third (e.g., left)loudspeaker 133. The third group of loudspeakers 130 may, for example,correspond to a third area of a premises, for example a master bedroom,garage, shop, etc. Each of the third group of loudspeakers 130 may, forexample, be operated independently or may be operated as a single group.Each of the third group of loudspeakers 130 may, for example, operateunder the control of the central media controller 111 and/or operateautonomously. Also for example, any or all of the third group ofloudspeakers 130 may operate with any or all of the other loudspeakersin the environment 100.

The example environment 100 may further, for example, comprise aloudspeaker 141 in a fourth area (or room or zone) (e.g., in a masterbath), a loudspeaker 151 in a fifth area (e.g., in a guest bath), aloudspeaker 161 in a sixth area (e.g., in a guest room), and aloudspeaker 171 in a seventh area (e.g., in an office).

Referring next to FIG. 2, such figure is a flow diagram of an examplemethod 200 for providing multi-zone media, in accordance with variousaspects of the present disclosure. The example method 200 may, forexample, share any or all characteristics with the other methodsdiscussed herein (e.g., with regard to FIGS. 3 and 4). The examplemethod 200, or any portion thereof, may be implemented at a loudspeaker,a central media controller, a plurality of system components, etc.

The example method 200 begins executing at block 205. The example method200 may begin executing in response to any of a variety of causes orconditions. The method 200 may, for example, begin executing when amedia presentation system implementing the method 200 is powered up,reset, or turned on. The method 200 may also, for example, beginexecuting when a media presentation system implementing the method 200receives a command from a user to present audio content and/or topresent audio content in a manner that permits the user to flexibly playor transfer music to various zones (e.g., receiving a command directlyat the system, receiving a command from a remote controller, receiving acommand from a user's smart phone, etc.). The method 200 may further,for example, begin executing in response to the media presentationsystem (e.g., a controller, loudspeaker, etc.) exiting from a sleepmode. Also for example, the method 200 may begin executing in responseto detecting a user input (e.g., a touch command, a voice command, etc.)at a component of the media presentation system (e.g., at a loudspeaker,at a controller, at a sensor independent of a loudspeaker or controller,etc.). Additionally, for example, the method 200 may begin executing inresponse to detecting a user input at a sensor physically independent ofyet communicatively coupled to a media presentation system or acomponent thereof, etc.). Still further for example, block 205 mayreceive execution flow from any of the blocks of the example method 200and/or from any flow diagram block discussed herein (e.g., at FIGS. 3and 4). In general, the method 200 may begin executing in response toany of a variety of causes or conditions. Accordingly, the scope of thisdisclosure should not be limited by characteristics of any particularinitiating cause or condition.

The example method 200 may, at block 210, comprise receiving a user“play” input at a loudspeaker. Block 210 may comprise receiving the user“play” input in any of a variety of manners, non-limiting examples ofwhich will now be presented.

For example, block 210 may comprise receiving a user touch (or tactile)input at the loudspeaker. Such a touch input may, for example, occur ata touch pad or other sensor of a loudspeaker. For example, a loudspeakermay comprise one or more touch sensors at one or more locations of theloudspeaker enclosure with which a user touch input may be detected orreceived. Also for example, such a touch input may, for example, bereceived at an enclosure of the loudspeaker. For example, the enclosuremay comprise touch-sensitive material embedded within the enclosure(e.g., piezo-resistive and/or piezo-electric material, capacitivetouch-sensing structure, etc.). Additionally for example, such a touchinput may be detected by a sensor that detects a user's hand closeenough to the loudspeaker to be deemed a touch (e.g., with a proximitysensor, light sensor, heat sensor, etc.).

Also for example, block 210 may comprise receiving a user touch (ortactile) input at a sensor that is physically separate from butcommunicatively coupled to the loudspeaker or other audio systemcomponent. For example, a touch sensor may be incorporated into a switchplate, a door, a door frame, or some other location that is convenientfor a user to access. For example, rather than walk to a loudspeaker ina room to provide a “play” input, the user may provide the “play” inputat a switch plate, a sensor mounted to a door frame or jamb, a sensormounted to a wall just inside a door to a room, etc.

The “play” input may also, for example, comprise an audible input (e.g.,a voice command to “play,” a clap or clap sequence, etc.). For example,block 210 may comprise receiving an audible command at a loudspeakerand/or a microphone of a loudspeaker. Block 210 may, for example,comprise identifying user commands by utilizing voice recognitiontechnology. Note that in an example implementation that includes aloudspeaker, a same loudspeaker may be utilized as both a loudspeakerand as a microphone. Such operation as both a loudspeaker and as amicrophone may be performed in a time-duplexed manner, for exampleserially alternating between functioning as a loudspeaker and as amicrophone. Such operation may also be performed in parallel. Forexample, even when a loudspeaker is being utilized to output sound, theloudspeaker is also sensitive to sound inputs, which can separated fromthe output sound and analyzed as a sound input. As with the touch input,the audible input may be received or detected by a sensor that isphysically separate from but communicatively coupled to the loudspeakeror other audio system component.

In general, block 210 may comprise receiving a user “play” input (e.g.,at a loudspeaker). Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of thisdisclosure should not be limited by characteristics of any particularuser “play” input or any particular manner of receiving such an input.

The method 200 may, at block 220, comprise (e.g., at least in part inresponse to the “play” input received at block 210) obtaining andpreparing audio content for presentation. Block 220 may, for example,comprise defining and/or establishing a communication link with an audiocontent server (e.g., local to a premises, remote from the premises,etc.), a central media controller, another loudspeaker, etc. Thecommunication link may, for example, be wired and/or wireless.Establishing the communication link may, for example, comprise joining amulticast group that comprises a plurality of members all receiving theaudio content. Also for example, establishing the communication link maycomprise establishing a unicast communication link for receiving theaudio content. The communication link may, for example, be performed inaccordance with any of a variety of standard and/or proprietarycommunication protocols.

Block 220 may, for example, comprise receiving audio content over acommunication link. The audio content may comprise any of a variety ofcharacteristics, for example encoded in accordance with any of a varietyof encoding formats. Block 220 may comprise decoding, error correcting,and/or otherwise processing or preparing the received audio content forpresentation.

Block 220 may also, for example, comprise synchronizing the audiocontent to be presented at step 230 to other presentations of the audiocontent presently occurring (e.g., in different audio presentationzones). For example, the received audio content (e.g., in the form ofdata packets) may comprise timestamp information (e.g., a presentationtimestamp) indicative of the intended presentation time of the audiocontent. Block 220 may thus ensure that the audio content is presentedsynchronously.

Note that any or all aspects of block 220 may be performed prior toreceiving the “play” input at block 210 (e.g., in anticipation of and/orin preparation for receiving the “play” input). For example, thefunctionality of block 220 may be performed in anticipation of the user“play” input being received at block 210. Such preprocessing may, forexample, eliminate latency between receiving the input at block 210 andpresentation of the content at block 230. Such preprocessing may, forexample, be performed at all loudspeakers or controllers in a premisesor at a selected one or more loudspeakers or controllers. Such operationis discussed herein, for example in the discussion of FIG. 4.

As part of the obtaining and preparing, block 220 may compriseidentifying one or more other loudspeakers for presentation of the audiocontent (e.g., for immediate presentation and/or for anticipatedpresentation). If one or more other loudspeakers are identified, block220 may comprise communicating with such identified loudspeakersregarding the received “play” input and/or the audio content. Forexample, in an example scenario in which a user is in an audio zone thatis serviced by the third group of loudspeakers 130 of FIG. 1, block 210may comprise receiving the user “play” input at the first loudspeaker131, and block 220 may comprise communicating with the secondloudspeaker 132 and the third loudspeaker 133 regarding the received“play” input and/or the audio content. Note that such communication maybe direct and/or indirect (e.g., through the central media controller111). In such example scenario, when the time comes to present the audiocontent, all of the loudspeakers of the group may operate together as acohesive group. In another example scenario in which a user enters theseventh area, which is service by a single loudspeaker 171, block 210may comprise receiving the user “play” input at the loudspeaker 171, andblock 220 may comprise identifying the loudspeaker 171 as the onlyloudspeaker for which audio needs to be obtained and prepared. Inanother example scenario, block 220 may comprise identifying allloudspeakers within a particular distance of a loudspeaker at which auser “play” input is received.

Block 220 may also, for example, comprise determining or selecting audiopresentation characteristics for the audio content. For example, theremay be a default volume and/or equalization for audio presentation forall loudspeakers, all loudspeakers of a group, or each individualloudspeaker. In such a scenario, block 220 may simply identify thedefault characteristics.

Also for example, block 220 may comprise retrieving the most recentaudio presentation characteristics from memory (e.g., local or remotememory). For example, each loudspeaker may maintain a record of the mostrecent volume, equalization characteristics, etc., and then select suchaudio presentation characteristics for the next presented audio.

Additionally, for example, block 220 may comprise receiving the audiopresentation characteristics from a central media controller and/or fromother loudspeakers already playing the audio content. For example, ifthe audio content is already being played by one or more otherloudspeakers, step 220 may comprise determining the audio presentationcharacteristics for the audio content that is already being played, andmatching such audio presentation characteristics. In such a manner, theaudio presentation characteristics (e.g., volume, equalization ormagnitude response shape, spatialization, limiting, any of a variety ofdigital signal processing effects associated with audio content, etc.)can be synchronized or coordinated over multiple groups of loudspeakersor audio presentation zones of the premises. For example, if a userturns up the volume of a favorite song in a first area of the homeserviced by a first group of loudspeakers, when the system continues topresent the audio in a next area of the home (e.g., triggered by a user“play” input received at a loudspeaker in that next area), the systemmay continue to present the audio at the increased volume.

Additionally for example, block 220 may comprise determining (e.g.,retrieving from memory) audio presentation characteristics associatedwith a particular user that is utilizing the system. For example, a userprofile may be maintained for audio presentation for that user. When theparticular user is utilizing the system, the system may present audiocontent for the user in accordance with the user profile. For example,block 220 may comprise determining a first volume for content beingpresented to a first user, and a second volume for content beingpresented to a second user. User identification may be determined in anyof a variety of manners (e.g., by user tactile input and/or recognition,user voice input and/or recognition, identification of user electronicsignature, by a user input explicitly identifying the user, etc.).

In general, block 220 may comprise obtaining and preparing audio contentfor presentation. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of thisdisclosure should not be limited by characteristics of any particularmanner of obtaining and preparing audio content.

The example method 200 may, at block 230, comprise presenting the audiocontent. For example, block 230 may comprise generating andcommunicating signals to loudspeaker amplifier circuitry that cause oneor more loudspeakers to output the audio content. As discussed herein,for example with regard to block 220, the loudspeakers and/or audiopresentation characteristics may be selected for playing the audiocontent. Block 230 may thus comprise presenting the audio content at theselected loudspeakers and having the selected audio presentationcharacteristics. Block 230 may, for example, comprise generating andcommunicating signals having the necessary frequency content, amplitude,timing, etc.

The example method 200 continues execution at block 295. The continuedexecution may comprise any of a variety of characteristics. For example,block 295 may comprise looping execution flow back up to any of theprevious blocks of the example method 200 and/or to any flow diagramblock discussed herein.

Turning next to FIG. 3, such figure shows a flow diagram of anotherexample method 300 for providing multi-zone media, in accordance withvarious aspects of the present disclosure. The example method 300 may,for example, share any or all characteristics with the other methodsdiscussed herein (e.g., with regard to the methods 200 and 400 of FIGS.2 and 4). The example method 300, or any portion thereof, may forexample be implemented at a loudspeaker, a central media controller,distributed among a plurality of system components, etc.

The example method 300 begins executing at block 305. The example method300 may begin executing in response to any of a variety of causes orconditions. The method 300 may, for example, begin executing when amedia presentation system implementing the method 300 is powered up,reset, or turned on. The method 300 may also, for example, beginexecuting when a media presentation system implementing the method 300receives a command from the user to present audio content and/or topresent audio content in a manner that permits the user to flexibly playor transfer music to various zones (e.g., receiving a command directlyat the system, receiving a command from a remote controller, receiving acommand from a user's smart phone, etc.). The method 300 may further,for example, begin executing in response to the media presentationsystem (e.g., a controller, loudspeaker, etc.) exiting from a sleepmode. Also for example, the method 300 may begin executing in responseto detecting a user input (e.g., a touch command, a voice command, etc.)at a component of the media presentation system (e.g., at a loudspeaker,at a controller, at a sensor independent of a loudspeaker or controller,etc.). Additionally, for example, the method 300 may begin executing inresponse to detecting a user input at a sensor physically independent ofyet communicatively coupled to a media presentation system or acomponent thereof, etc.). Still further for example, block 305 mayreceive execution flow from any of the blocks of the example method 300and/or from any flow diagram block discussed herein (e.g., at FIGS. 2and 4). In general, the method 300 may begin executing in response toany of a variety of causes or conditions. Accordingly, the scope of thisdisclosure should not be limited by characteristics of any particularinitiating cause or condition.

The example method 300 may, at block 310, comprise playing audiocontent. Block 310 may, for example, comprise playing audio content at aloudspeaker implementing the method 300 or a portion of the method 300.Block 310 may also, for example, comprise playing the audio content at aloudspeaker different from the loudspeaker implementing the method 300or a portion of the method 300. Block 310 may, for example, share any orall characteristics with block 230 of the example method 200 shown atFIG. 2 and discussed herein.

The example method 300 may, at block 315, comprise waiting for a userinput at a loudspeaker. Block 315 may, for example, share any or allcharacteristics with block 210 of the example method 200 shown in FIG. 2and discussed herein.

Block 315 may, for example, comprise waiting for a user input whileoperating in a reduced power mode (e.g., a sleep mode), for example inwhich some or most electrical components of a loudspeaker are poweredoff or down. For example, while waiting for a user input, a systemimplementing block 315 might only keep enough electrical circuitryactive to detect a user input. A detected user input may then, forexample, result in exiting the reduced power mode. A loudspeaker may,for example, operate in a sleep mode when not presenting and/orexpecting to present audio content.

Also for example, block 315 may comprise waiting for a user input whileoperating the loudspeaker in an awake mode. For example, the loudspeakermay always be awake or may, for example, be awake in response to asignal (e.g., from a central media controller, other loudspeaker,sensor, etc.) indicating that a user input is imminent or likely. Insuch a scenario, as discussed herein, the loudspeaker may also obtainand/or process audio content in anticipation of a user input (e.g., a“play” input) being received. In another example, the loudspeaker may beoperating in an awake mode because it is presently playing audiocontent.

As discussed herein, the user input may comprise a touch or tactileinput, audible or voice input, etc. The user input may also be receivedat a sensor of a loudspeaker and/or at a sensor that is physicallyseparate from the loudspeaker.

The example method 200 discussed herein with regard to FIG. 2 generallyaddressed receiving one type of input (e.g., a “play” input). The scopeof this disclosure is not, however, limited to a single type of input.For example, the received input may comprise a “play” command, a “stop”command, a “volume up” or “volume down” command, a “bass/treble” orother equalization command, a command to remember current audiopresentation settings, etc.

For example, at flow control block 320, a decision is made whether areceived user input is a command to turn off audio presentation at theloudspeaker. If so, execution flow of the example method 300 proceeds toblock 325 at which the audio output from the loudspeaker is turned offand execution flow of the example method 300 returns to block 315. If,however, the received user input is not a command to turn off audiopresentation at the loudspeaker, execution flow of the example method300 may proceed to another flow control block 330. In an examplescenario and referring to FIG. 1, if the loudspeaker 161 in the sixthaudio zone is playing audio content, a person leaving the sixth zone mayprovide an input to the loudspeaker 161 (or an associated sensor)indicating that the loudspeaker 161 is to stop playing the audiocontent.

In an example implementation, a single touch may signify “play” if theloudspeaker is silent and signify “stop playing” if the loudspeaker isplaying. Also for example, a single touch or first touch sequence maysignify “play” while a double touch or second touch sequence may signify“stop playing.” Additionally for example, verbal commands such as theuser saying “play” or “follow” may signify a command to play, whileverbal commands such as “stop” or “silence” may signify a command tostop playing. Other audible inputs, such as a clap or clap sequence, maybe utilized to represent commands as well.

At flow control block 330, a decision is made whether a received userinput is a “volume change” command (e.g., volume up or volume down). Ifso, execution flow of the example method 300 proceeds to block 335 toimplement the commanded volume change. As an example, referring to block220 of the example method 200 of FIG. 2, the amplitude of a signal beingprovided to drive an audio loudspeaker may be adjusted to implement thecommanded volume change. If, however, the received user input is not acommand for a volume change, execution flow of the example method 300may proceed to another flow control block 340.

In an example scenario and referring to FIG. 1, if the loudspeaker 171in the seventh audio zone is playing audio content and a user inputcommand to turn down the volume is received (e.g., at the loudspeaker171, at an associated sensor, etc.), then block 335 will turn down thevolume accordingly. In another example scenario, if a “volume up” inputis received at the loudspeaker 122 in the second area 120 or audio zone,block 335 may turn down the volume of both of the loudspeakers 121 and122 of the second area 120. In this example, a command (e.g., play/stop,volume up/down, bass/treble adjust, etc.) at either of the loudspeakers121 and 122 may result in the desired audio presentation change beingimplemented in both of the loudspeakers 121 and 122 of the second area120.

An input volume change command (or command to change other mediapresentation characteristics) may comprise any of a variety ofcharacteristics. For example, a volume change command may be received asa finger swipe up or down on a loudspeaker enclosure, sensor mounted tothe loudspeaker enclosure, a sensor that is physically separate butassociated with the loudspeaker, etc.

At the flow control block 340, if the received user input is a commandto play the audio content at the loudspeaker, then execution flow of theexample method 300 may proceed to block 350. If, however, the receivedinput is not a command to play the audio content at the loudspeaker,then execution flow of the example method 300 may proceed to block 345for continued execution.

At block 350, audio content to be played may be identified and/orobtained. Block 350 may, for example, share any or all characteristicswith block 220 of the example method 200 shown in FIG. 2 and discussedherein.

Block 350 may, for example, comprise identifying audio to be played. Inan operating mode in which audio content is to follow a user around apremise (e.g., as requested by the user when the user enters an audiozone or area), block 350 may comprise identifying the audio content tobe the audio content that is or has already recently been playing inother areas. In a scenario in which no audio is currently beingpresented in the premises, block 350 may comprise identifying mostrecently presented audio content (e.g., a channel or other source, asong, a playlist, an artist, a recorded broadcast or show, etc.). Inanother example scenario, the system may be configured (e.g., with anapp) to play particular audio content when a user input “play” commandis received. Such configuring may, for example, be performed locally(e.g., within a local area network) or remotely (e.g., via the Internetor a wide area network). In yet another example, block 350 may compriseidentifying a networked radio station (e.g., Pandora™, Rhapsody™, etc.)and interfacing with the networked station to provide audio for theidentified user and/or identified premises.

Block 350 may also comprise obtaining the identified audio content to bepresented. For example, as explained herein block 350 may comprisejoining a multicast group to which the audio content is already beingcommunicated. Also for example, block 350 may comprise interfacing witha central media controller or audio content server to obtain theidentified audio content.

After the desired audio content is obtained, block 355 may comprisepreparing the audio content for presentation. For example, as discussedpreviously (e.g., with regard to block 220 of the example method 200shown in FIG. 2), block 355 may comprise processing audio content in anyof a variety of manners (e.g., decoding audio data, error-correctingaudio data, adjusting volume and/or equalization of audio data, etc.).

At block 365, the audio content to be presented may be synchronized, forexample synchronized to audio content already being presented. Forexample, as discussed previously (e.g., with regard to block 220 of theexample method 200 shown in FIG. 2), block 365 may comprisesynchronizing audio presentation based on timestamps in the obtainedaudio content (e.g., presentation timestamps). Block 365 may also, forexample, include synchronizing a local clock (e.g., at a loudspeaker)with a central clock (e.g., at a central control, content server, etc.).In various example implementations, the presentation of audio contentfrom different loudspeakers may be timed or synchronized to reach a userat the same time. For example, the audio content presented from arelatively near speaker may be delayed relative to the audio contentpresented from a relatively far speaker so that the audio content fromboth the near speaker and the far speaker reach the user at the sametime. Such operation may, for example, be advantageous when the audiocontent is only being directed to one user, or more generally to oneaudio zone.

Note that blocks 350, 355, and 360 may share any or all characteristicswith the block 220 of the example method 200 shown in FIG. 2 anddiscussed herein. Also note that, as discussed herein with regard toblock 220 of FIG. 2, the functionality of blocks 350, 355, and 360 maybe performed prior to a “play” input being received at block 315. Inother words, obtaining audio content, processing audio content, andsynchronizing audio content may be performed in anticipation of the needfor actually playing the audio content in response to a user inputreceived at block 315.

Block 365 may, for example, comprise presenting the audio content to theuser. Block 365 may, for example, share any or all characteristics withblock 230 of the example method 200 illustrated in FIG. 2 and discussedherein.

Block 370 may, for example, comprise managing the presentation of theaudio content by loudspeakers that have already been playing the audiocontent. For example, upon playing audio content at a currentloudspeaker (or logically grouped set of loudspeakers), block 370 maystop presentation of the audio content at a previous loudspeaker orgroup thereof.

For example, referring to FIG. 1, in an example scenario, a user mayleave the first area 110 (or audio zone) in which audio is beingpresented and provide a user input at the loudspeaker 151 in the fiftharea to command the audio content to be played by the loudspeaker 151.Block 315 may wait for and receive the user input, blocks 350-365 mayplay the audio content at loudspeaker 151, and block 370 may stoppresentation of the audio content in the first area 110 (e.g., stoppingpresentation of the audio content by the loudspeakers 112-115 of thefirst area). Such stopping may, for example, be performed immediately,may be performed after a time delay, may be performed after a time delaywithout another user input at a loudspeaker or sensor of the first area110, etc. Such stopping may, for example, comprise an abrupt stoppage ormay comprise a fading out.

In another example scenario, the audio presentation may be maintained ina most recent area but discontinued in a second most recent area. Forexample referring again to FIG. 1, in an example scenario in which auser input causes the audio content to be presented in the third area130 (or loudspeakers therein), and then in the first area 110, and thenin the second area 120, block 370 may discontinue presentation of theaudio content in the third area 130 when the audio content begins to bepresented in the second area 120. For example, upon presentation of theaudio content by the loudspeakers 121 and 122 of the second area 120,presentation of the audio content by the loudspeakers 112-115 of thefirst area 110 will continue, while presentation of the audio content bythe loudspeakers 131-133 of the third area 130 will be stopped. A movingwindow of audio content presentation may thus follow the user, so thatthe user need not reinitiate audio presentation when returning to a zonefrom which the user just came.

After block 370 manages the presentation of the audio content inloudspeakers that have previously been playing the audio content,execution flow of the example method 300 may return to block 315 to waitfor another user input.

As mentioned herein, if the received input is not a command to play theaudio content at the loudspeaker, then execution flow of the examplemethod 300 may proceed from flow control block 340 to block 395 forcontinued execution. The continued execution may comprise any of avariety of characteristics. The continued execution may, for example,comprise further identification of the user input and performing thedesired function. Block 395 may, for example, comprise looping executionflow back up to any of the previous blocks of the example method 300and/or to any flow diagram block discussed herein.

As discussed herein, audio content may be preemptively obtained andprocessed prior to the need for the audio content at a loudspeakerarising. Such obtaining and processing may, for example, beneficiallyeliminate or reduce latency in audio content presentation in response toa user command to present the audio content. Such obtaining andprocessing may, for example, be performed at all loudspeakers and/orother components of the media system. Alternatively, such obtaining andprocessing may also be performed at an identified loudspeaker or groupthereof. For example, one or more loudspeakers may be identified as themost likely loudspeakers to be involved in a next presentation of theaudio content. Such identified loudspeakers may then perform thepreemptive obtaining and processing. FIG. 4 provides an example of suchoperation.

FIG. 4 is a flow diagram of an additional example method 400 forproviding multi-zone media, in accordance with various aspects of thepresent disclosure. The example method 400 may, for example, share anyor all characteristics with the other methods discussed herein. Theexample method 400, or any portion thereof, may be implemented at aloudspeaker, a central media controller, distributed among a pluralityof system components, etc.

The example method 400 begins executing at block 405. The example method400 may begin executing in response to any of a variety of causes orconditions. The method 400 may, for example, begin executing when amedia presentation system implementing the method 400 is powered up,reset, or turned on. The method 400 may also, for example, beginexecuting when media presentation system implementing the method 400receives a command from the user to present audio content and/or topresent audio content in a manner that permits the user to flexibly playor transfer music to various zones (e.g., receiving a command directlyat the system, receiving a command from a remote controller, receiving acommand from a user's smart phone, etc.). The method 400 may further,for example, begin executing in response to the media presentationsystem (e.g., a controller, loudspeaker, etc.) exiting from a sleepmode. Also for example, the method 400 may begin executing in responseto detecting a user input (e.g., a touch command, a voice command, etc.)at a component of the media presentation system (e.g., at a loudspeaker,at a controller, at a sensor independent of a loudspeaker or controller,etc.). Additionally, for example, the method 400 may begin executing inresponse to detecting a user input at a sensor physically independent ofyet communicatively coupled to a media presentation system or acomponent thereof, etc.). Still further for example, block 405 mayreceive execution flow from any of the blocks of the example method 400and/or from any flow diagram block discussed herein (e.g., at FIGS. 2and 3). In general, the method 400 may begin executing in response toany of a variety of causes or conditions. Accordingly, the scope of thisdisclosure should not be limited by characteristics of any particularinitiating cause or condition.

The example method 400 may, at block 410, comprise predicting a usertrajectory (e.g., within the premises in which audio content is beingpresented to the user). Block 410 may, for example, predict a mostlikely next presentation area based on the presentation areas in whichthe audio content has been presented to the user. For example, referringto FIG. 1, if the user initiated audio presentation in the first area110 followed by the third area 130, block 410 may predict the fourtharea (e.g., including the loudspeaker 141) as a next likely point in theuser trajectory. Also for example, if the user initiated audiopresentation in the first area 110 followed by the second area 120,block 410 may predict that the user will likely return to the first area110.

Block 410 may predict one or more most likely user trajectories in anyof a variety of manners. For example, block 410 may comprise performingsuch prediction based on known monitored user movement patterns. Forexample, if at 6:00 pm on weekday evenings, the user habitually movesfrom the third area 130 to the second area 120 to the first area 110,block 410 may, for example upon determining that the time is near 6:00pm and seeing the user initiate audio content presentation in the thirdarea 130 and then the second area 120, determine that the user is likelyto move next into the first area 110 and request audio contentpresentation there. In another scenario, block 410 may determine thatthe next most likely user trajectory includes a trajectory to any area(or audio zone) adjacent to the current area in which the audio contentis being presented.

The example method 400 may, at block 420, for example based on theprediction(s) of block 410, identify a set of likely next loudspeakersto present the audio content. For example, upon prediction of a usertrajectory into a next area, block 420 may identify the loudspeakersassociated with audio content in the area. For example, referring toFIG. 1, identification of the first area 110 by block 410 may result inblock 420 identifying the loudspeakers 112-115. Also for example,identification of the fifth, sixth, and seventh areas by block 410 mayresult in block 420 identifying the loudspeaker 151, loudspeaker 161,and loudspeaker 171.

The example method 400 may, for example at block 430, comprisecommunicating the audio content to the identified loudspeakers (e.g., ina broadcast or multicast communication, in a unicast communication toeach loudspeaker, etc.). For example, block 430 may compriseestablishing communication links for the communication of the audiocontent (e.g., bandwidth allocation, address allocation, multicastsetup, etc.). Block 430 may, for example, share any or allcharacteristics with block 220 and block 350 of the example methods 200and 300 shown in FIGS. 2-3 and discussed herein.

The example method 400 may, for example at block 440, comprisepre-processing audio data at the identified loudspeaker(s). Block 440may, for example, share any or all characteristics with block 220, block355, and block 360 of the example methods 200 and 300 shown in FIGS. 2-3and discussed herein. As mentioned herein, the obtaining and processingof audio content may be performed prior to the determination of apresent need for the audio content at a particular loudspeaker.

The example method 400 may, for example at block 450, compriseprocessing and playing the audio content at the identified nextloudspeaker(s) if triggered (e.g., by a user input). Other examples ofthe general methodology presented at FIG. 4 may be found in U.S.application Ser. No. 14/726,019, filed concurrently herewith, titled“System and Method for Providing User Location-based Multi-zone Media,”the contents of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference intheir entirety.

As explained herein, the example methods 200, 300, and 400 presentedherein, or any portion thereof, may be performed by one or moreloudspeakers, a central media controller, or other apparatus (e.g.,independently or in a distributed manner). FIGS. 5 and 6 providenon-limiting examples of a media output device and a central mediacontroller, each of which may perform any or all of the functionalitydiscussed herein.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram of an example media output device 500, inaccordance with various aspects of the present disclosure. The mediaoutput device 500 may, for example, operate to or be operable to performany or all of the functionality discussed herein (e.g., with regard tothe example methods illustrated in FIGS. 2-4 and discussed herein). Themedia output device 500 may, for example, comprise a loudspeaker, butthe scope of this disclosure is not limited thereto. The loudspeakermay, for example, be wall-mounted, ceiling mounted, free-standing,indoor, outdoor, etc. The media output device 500 may, for example,comprise any of a variety of media output devices (e.g., a video outputdevice, etc.). The media output device 500 may, for example, share anyor all characteristics with the loudspeakers shown in FIG. 1.

The example device 500 may, for example, comprise a power supply module510. The power supply module 510 may, for example, comprise electricalcircuitry operable to receive and/or prepare electrical power forutilization by the other modules of the device 500. The power supplymodule 510 may, for example, comprise an A/C power module adapted forplugging into a premises power outlet and/or for direct integration intothe A/C power system of a premises. The power supply module 510 mayalso, for example, be operable to receive and/or prepare electricalpower from a power-over-Ethernet (POE) system. The power supply module510 may additionally, for example, be operable to receive and/or preparebattery power (e.g., manage battery operation for power supply,recharging, etc.). The power supply module 510 may also, for example, beoperable to provide electrical power (e.g., via Ethernet or otherwiring) to other media presentation devices (e.g., to otherloudspeakers).

The example device 500 may also, for example, comprise a user interfacemodule 520. The user interface module 520 may, for example, be operableto perform any or all of the user interface functionality discussedherein. For example, the user interface module 520 may be operable toperform the functionality discussed herein with regard to block 210 ofthe example method 200 illustrated in FIG. 2 and with regard to block315 of the example method 300 illustrated in FIG. 3.

For example, the user interface module 520 may comprise any one or moreof a variety of sensors for user input. For example, the user interfacemodule 520 may comprise a touch sensor and associated circuitry forprocessing touch inputs. The touch sensor for user touch input may, forexample, comprise a touch pad, touch screen, heat sensor, capacitivesensor, piezo-resistive sensor, piezo-electric sensor, light sensor,MEMS inertial sensor, etc. The touch input may, for example, comprise atap input (e.g., single-tap, double-tap, n-tap, etc.). The touch inputmay, for example, comprise a touch input on a graphical user interfacefeature being presented to the user on a touch screen. The touch inputmay also, for example, comprise a swipe input (e.g., for adjustment ofmedia presentation characteristics, like volume, etc.). Also forexample, the user interface module 520 may comprise a microphone sensorand associated circuitry for processing audible inputs (e.g., voicecommands).

The sensors may, for example, be included on or within an enclosure ofthe device 500. Additionally for example, the sensors may be physicallyseparate from the device 500. As discussed herein, for example, touchsensors may be incorporated into switch plates, door frames, doors,etc., and thus need not necessarily be physically integrated with thedevice 500. In such example implementations, the sensors may behardwired with the device 500 and/or may wirelessly communicate with thedevice 500. In a wireless communication scenario, the user interfacemodule 520 may utilize wireless communication capability of thecommunication interface module 530 discussed herein.

The user interface module 520 may also, for example, comprise any one ormore of a variety of user output devices (e.g., for providing audiofeedback to a user, for visual output feedback to a user, etc.). Forexample, the user interface module 520 may operate to provide output tothe user to indicate the mode of operation in which the device 500 isoperating, to indicate the media output characteristics of the mediacurrently being presented to the user, to output user input features(e.g., graphical user interface features), etc.

The user interface module 520 may further, for example, operate tointerface with a remote control device (e.g., a dedicated remote controldevice, a smart phone, etc.). For example, the user interface module 520may utilize the communication interface module 530 to communicate withthe user's smart phone.

The example device 500 may additionally, for example, comprise acommunication interface module 530. The communication interface module530 may, for example, be operable to perform any or all of thecommunication functionality discussed herein (e.g., in the discussionsof FIGS. 1-4). Such communication functionality may, for example,comprise communicating with other devices (e.g., other loudspeakers,central controllers, media servers, etc.). Such communicationfunctionality may, for example, comprise communicating informationregarding general system operation, user inputs, media content, etc.

The communication interface module 530 may, for example, be operable toestablish, maintain, and utilize communication links with other devices(e.g., with loudspeakers, with a central media controller, with a localmedia server within a premises over a local area network, with a remotemedia server outside of a premises over the Internet and/or othernetworks, etc.). The communication interface module 530 may, forexample, be operable to communicate over wired, wireless, or opticallinks.

The communication interface module 530 may, for example, be operable tointerface with a wired and/or wireless local area network (LAN),personal area network (PAN), wide area network (WAN), etc. Thecommunication interface module 530 may, for example, be operable tointerface with a telecommunication network (e.g., cellular, landline,satellite, etc.), a television network (e.g., cable, satellite, etc.),etc. The communication interface module 530 may, for example, beoperable to communicate utilizing any of a variety of standard and/orproprietary communication protocols (e.g., WiFi, Ethernet, Bluetooth,4G, 5G, LTE, MoCA, 802.15, etc.).

The example device 500 may also, for example, comprise an audioprocessing module 540. The audio processing module 540 may, for example,be operable to perform any or all of the audio processing functionalitydiscussed herein. For example, the audio processing module 540 may beoperable to perform functionality discussed herein with regard to blocks220 and 230 of the example method 200 shown in FIG. 2; blocks 325, 335,350, 355, 360, and 365 of the example method 300 shown in FIG. 3; blocks430, 440, and 450 of the example method 400 shown in FIG. 4; etc.

For example, the audio processing module 540 may be operable to managethe presentation of audio content at a loudspeaker. For example, theaudio processing module 540 may be operable to process audio data (e.g.,decoding, decrypting, error-correcting, queuing, digital-to-analogconverting, etc.). Also for example, the audio processing module 540 maybe operable to control media presentation characteristics (e.g., on/off,volume level, bass/treble or other equalization effects, balance betweena plurality of loudspeakers, managing stereo and/or surround-sound mediapresentation, etc.). As with all modules shown herein, the audioprocessing module 540 may, for example, be implemented as a stand-aloneaudio processor or may share a portion of a processor with one or moreother modules.

The example device 500 may further, for example, comprise a loudspeakeramplifier 550 and loudspeaker 555. The loudspeaker amplifier 550 andloudspeaker 555 may, for example, be operable to convert electricalsignals into mechanical loudspeaker motion (e.g., of one or moreloudspeaker membranes, cones, etc.) and thereby generateuser-perceivable sound.

The example device 500 may, for example, comprise a processor 560 and amemory 570. Any or all of the functionality or associated modulesdiscussed herein may, for example, be implemented in hardware and/orimplemented using a combination of hardware and software (e.g., aprocessor operating in accordance with software instructions stored on anon-transitory computer-readable medium). For example, the processor 560may operate in accordance with software instructions stored in thememory 570 to implement all or any part of the modules discussed herein.The processor 560 may, for example, comprise a general-purposemicroprocessor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an applicationspecific integrated circuit (ASIC), a microcontroller, etc. The memory570 may, for example, comprise non-volatile and/or volatile memory. Notethat the memory 570 may also be utilized for storing media content,media presentation characteristics, user profile information, etc.

As discussed herein, any or all of the functionality discussed hereinmay be performed by a media presentation device (e.g., a loudspeaker) ora plurality of media presentation devices working together. Also asdiscussed herein, any or all of the functionality discussed herein maybe performed by a central media controller, a media server, etc. Anexample central media controller and/or media server will now bepresented.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram of an example media controller 600, inaccordance with various aspects of the present disclosure. The examplemedia controller 600 may, for example, share any or all characteristicswith the device 500 illustrated in FIG. 5 and discussed herein. Theexample media controller 600 may, for example, operate to or be operableto perform any or all of the functionality discussed herein (e.g., withregard to the example methods illustrated in FIGS. 2-4 and discussedherein). The media controller 600 may, for example, comprise a centralaudio controller, but the scope of this disclosure is not limitedthereto. The media controller 600 may, for example, comprise any of avariety of media controller devices (e.g., audio controller, videocontroller, multi-media controller, etc.). The media controller 600 may,for example, share any or all characteristics with the centralcontroller 111 shown in FIG. 1.

The example media controller 600 may, for example, comprise a powersupply module 610. The power supply module 610 may, for example,comprise electrical circuitry operable to receive and/or prepareelectrical power for utilization by the other modules of the mediacontroller 600. The power supply module 610 may, for example, comprisean A/C power module adapted for plugging into a premises power outletand/or for direct integration into the A/C power system of a premises.The power supply module 610 may also, for example, be operable toreceive and/or prepare electrical power from a power-over-Ethernet (POE)system. The power supply module 610 may additionally, for example, beoperable to receive and/or prepare battery power (e.g., manage batteryoperation for power supply, recharging, etc.). The power supply module610 may also, for example, be operable to provide electrical power(e.g., via Ethernet or other wiring) to media presentation devices(e.g., to loudspeakers).

The example media controller 600 may also, for example, comprise a userinterface module 620. The user interface module 620 may, for example, beoperable to perform any or all of the user interface functionalitydiscussed herein. For example, the user interface module 620 may beoperable to perform the functionality discussed herein with regard toblock 210 of the example method 200 illustrated in FIG. 2 and withregard to block 315 of the example method 200 illustrated in FIG. 3.Also for example, the user interface module 620 may be operable tocommunicate with a user regarding general operation and configuration ofthe media presentation system controlled by the media controller 600.

For example, the user interface module 620 may comprise any one or moreof a variety of sensors for user input. For example, the user interfacemodule 620 may comprise a touch sensor and associated circuitry forprocessing touch inputs. The touch sensor for user touch input may, forexample, comprise a touch pad, touch screen, heat sensor, capacitivesensor, piezo-resistive sensor, piezo-electric sensor, light sensor,MEMS inertial sensor, etc. The touch input may, for example, comprise atap input (e.g., single-tap, double-tap, n-tap, etc.). The touch inputmay, for example, comprise a touch input on a graphical user interfacefeature being presented to the user on a touch screen. The touch inputmay also, for example, comprise a swipe input (e.g., for adjustment ofmedia presentation characteristics, like volume, etc.). Also forexample, the user interface module 620 may comprise a microphone sensorand associated circuitry for processing audible inputs (e.g., voicecommands).

The sensors may, for example, be included on or within an enclosure ofthe media controller 600. Additionally for example, the sensors may bephysically separate from the media controller 600. As discussed herein,for example, touch sensors may be incorporated into switch plates, doorframes, doors, etc., and thus need not necessarily be physicallyintegrated with the media controller 600. In such exampleimplementations, the sensors may be hardwired with the media controller600 and/or may wirelessly communicate with the media controller 600. Ina wireless communication scenario, the user interface module 620 mayutilize wireless communication capability of the communication interfacemodule 530 discussed herein.

The user interface module 620 may also, for example, comprise any one ormore of a variety of user output devices (e.g., for providing audiofeedback to a user, for visual output feedback to a user, etc.). Forexample, the user interface module 620 may operate to provide output tothe user to indicate the mode of operation in which the media controller600 is operating, to indicate the media output characteristics of themedia currently being presented to the user, to output user inputfeatures (e.g., graphical user interface features), etc.

The user interface module 620 may further, for example, operate tointerface with a remote control device (e.g., a dedicated remote controldevice, a smart phone, etc.). For example, the user interface module 620may utilize the communication interface module 630 to communicate withthe user's smart phone.

The example media controller 600 may additionally, for example, comprisea communication interface module 630. The communication interface module630 may, for example, be operable to perform any or all of thecommunication functionality discussed herein (e.g., in the discussionsof FIGS. 1-4). Such communication functionality may, for example,comprise communicating with other devices (e.g., other loudspeakers,central controllers, media servers, etc.). Such communicationfunctionality may, for example, comprise communicating informationregarding general system operation, user inputs, media content, etc.

The communication interface module 630 may, for example, be operable toestablish, maintain, and utilize communication links with other devices(e.g., with loudspeakers, with a central media controller, with a localmedia server within a premises over a local area network, with a remotemedia server outside of a premises over the Internet and/or othernetworks, etc.). The communication interface module 630 may, forexample, be operable to communicate over wired, wireless, or opticallinks. The communication interface module 630 may, for example, comprisea plurality of separate (or time-duplexed) communication modules forcommunication with a plurality of media presentation devices (e.g.,loudspeakers) simultaneously.

The communication interface module 630 may, for example, be operable tointerface with a wired and/or wireless local area network (LAN),personal area network (PAN), wide area network (WAN), etc. Thecommunication interface module 630 may, for example, be operable tointerface with a telecommunication network (e.g., cellular, landline,satellite, etc.), a television network (e.g., cable, satellite, etc.),etc. The communication interface module 630 may, for example, beoperable to communicate utilizing any of a variety of standard and/orproprietary communication protocols (e.g., WiFi, Ethernet, Bluetooth,4G, 5G, LTE, MoCA, 802.15, etc.).

Though not illustrated, the media controller 600 may comprise an audioprocessing module, loudspeaker amplifier, and loudspeaker, as discussedwith regard to FIG. 5.

The example media controller 600 may, for example, comprise a processor660 and a memory 670. Any or all of the functionality or associatedmodules discussed herein may, for example, be implemented in hardwareand/or implemented using a combination of hardware and software (e.g., aprocessor operating in accordance with software instructions stored on anon-transitory computer-readable medium). For example, the processor 660may operate in accordance with software instructions stored in thememory 670 to implement all or any part of the modules discussed herein.The processor 660 may, for example, comprise a general-purposemicroprocessor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an applicationspecific integrated circuit (ASIC), a microcontroller, etc. The memory670 may, for example, comprise non-volatile and/or volatile memory. Notethat the memory 670 may also be utilized for storing media content,media presentation characteristics, user profile information, etc.

In summary, various aspects of this disclosure provide a multi-zonemedia system and method for providing multi-zone media. While theforegoing has been described with reference to certain aspects andembodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art thatvarious changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted withoutdeparting from the scope of the disclosure. In addition, manymodifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material tothe teachings of the disclosure without departing from its scope.Therefore, it is intended that the disclosure not be limited to theparticular embodiment(s) disclosed, but that the disclosure will includeall embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A system for presenting audio content, the systemcomprising: at least one module operable to, at least: play audiocontent at a first loudspeaker; receive a user input at a secondloudspeaker; and based, at least in part, on the received user input atthe second loudspeaker, at least: play the audio content at the secondloudspeaker by, at least in part, operating to synchronize the audiocontent playing at the second loudspeaker with the audio content playingat the first loudspeaker; and modify presentation of the audio contentat the first loudspeaker.
 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the userinput is a voice input.
 3. The system of claim 1, wherein the at leastone module is operable to, based at least in part on the received userinput at the second loudspeaker, establish a multicast communicationlink with a central controller.
 4. The system of claim 1, wherein the atleast one module is operable to synchronize the audio content playing atthe second loudspeaker with the audio content playing at the firstloudspeaker by, at least in part, operating to time the audio contentplaying at the second speaker to reach the user at a same time as theaudio content playing at the first speaker.
 5. The system of claim 1,wherein the at least one module is operable to modify presentation ofthe audio content at the first loudspeaker by, at least in part,operating to stop presentation of the audio content at the firstloudspeaker after a time period without another user input at the firstloudspeaker.
 6. A system for presenting audio content, the systemcomprising: at least one module operable to, at least: play audiocontent at a first loudspeaker; receive a user input at a secondloudspeaker; and based, at least in part, on the received user input atthe second loudspeaker, at least: play the audio content at the secondloudspeaker; and modify presentation of the audio content at the firstloudspeaker, wherein the at least one module is operable to play theaudio content at the second loudspeaker by, at least in part, operatingto select a volume at which to play the audio content at the secondloudspeaker based at least in part on a user volume command input at thefirst loudspeaker.
 7. The system of claim 6, wherein the at least onemodule is operable to, based at least in part on the received user inputat the second loudspeaker, establish a multicast communication link witha central controller.
 8. The system of claim 6, wherein the at least onemodule is operable to modify presentation of the audio content at thefirst loudspeaker by, at least in part, operating to stop presentationof the audio content at the first loudspeaker after a time periodwithout another user input at the first loudspeaker.
 9. A system forpresenting audio content, the system comprising: at least one moduleoperable to, at least: play audio content at a first loudspeaker;receive a user input at a second loudspeaker; and based, at least inpart, on the received user input at the second loudspeaker, at least:play the audio content at the second loudspeaker; and modifypresentation of the audio content at the first loudspeaker, wherein theat least one module is operable to modify presentation of the audiocontent at the first loudspeaker by, at least in part, operating toadjust the volume of the audio content being played at the firstloudspeaker.
 10. The system of claim 9, wherein the at least one moduleis operable to, based at least in part on the received user input at thesecond loudspeaker, establish a multicast communication link with acentral controller.
 11. The system of claim 9, wherein the at least onemodule is operable to modify presentation of the audio content at thefirst loudspeaker by, at least in part, operating to stop presentationof the audio content at the first loudspeaker after a time periodwithout another user input at the first loudspeaker.
 12. A system forpresenting audio content, the system comprising: at least one moduleoperable to, at least: play audio content at a first loudspeaker;receive a user input at a second loudspeaker; and based, at least inpart, on the received user input at the second loudspeaker, at least:play the audio content at the second loudspeaker; and modifypresentation of the audio content at the first loudspeaker, wherein theat least one module is operable to, prior to receiving the user input atthe second loudspeaker and while not playing the audio content at thesecond loudspeaker, perform digital signal processing on data associatedwith the audio content at the second loudspeaker in preparation forreceiving the user input at the second loudspeaker and playing the audiocontent at the second loudspeaker.
 13. The system of claim 12, whereinthe at least one module is operable to, based at least in part on thereceived user input at the second loudspeaker, establish a multicastcommunication link with a central controller.
 14. The system of claim12, wherein the at least one module is operable to modify presentationof the audio content at the first loudspeaker by, at least in part,operating to stop presentation of the audio content at the firstloudspeaker after a time period without another user input at the firstloudspeaker.
 15. A system for presenting audio content, the systemcomprising: at least one module operable to, at least: play audiocontent at a first loudspeaker; receive a user input at a secondloudspeaker; and based, at least in part, on the received user input atthe second loudspeaker, at least: play the audio content at the secondloudspeaker; and modify presentation of the audio content at the firstloudspeaker, wherein the at least one module is operable to, based atleast in part on the received user input at the second loudspeaker, wakea third loudspeaker from a sleep mode in anticipation of futureutilization of the third loudspeaker.
 16. The system of claim 15,wherein the at least one module is operable to, based at least in parton the received user input at the second loudspeaker, establish amulticast communication link with a central controller.
 17. The systemof claim 15, wherein the at least one module is operable to modifypresentation of the audio content at the first loudspeaker by, at leastin part, operating to stop presentation of the audio content at thefirst loudspeaker after a time period without another user input at thefirst loudspeaker.
 18. A system for presenting audio content, the systemcomprising: at least one module operable to, at least: play audiocontent at a first loudspeaker; receive a user input at a secondloudspeaker; and based, at least in part, on the received user input atthe second loudspeaker, at least: play the audio content at the secondloudspeaker; and modify presentation of the audio content at the firstloudspeaker, wherein the at least one module is operable to, based atleast in part on the received user input at the second loudspeaker, playthe audio content at a third loudspeaker in a third audio control zonethat is different from a first audio control zone of the firstloudspeaker and different from a second audio control zone of the secondloudspeaker.
 19. The system of claim 18, wherein the at least one moduleis operable to, based at least in part on the received user input at thesecond loudspeaker, establish a multicast communication link with acentral controller.
 20. The system of claim 18, wherein the at least onemodule is operable to modify presentation of the audio content at thefirst loudspeaker by, at least in part, operating to stop presentationof the audio content at the first loudspeaker after a time periodwithout another user input at the first loudspeaker.
 21. A system forpresenting audio content, the system comprising: at least one moduleoperable to, at least: play audio content at a first loudspeaker;receive a user input at a touch sensor associated with a secondloudspeaker, wherein the touch sensor comprises an electronic touchsensor that comprises no moving parts; and based, at least in part, onthe received user input at the second loudspeaker, play the audiocontent at the second loudspeaker, wherein the at least one module isoperable to, based at least in part on the received user input at thesecond loudspeaker, modify the volume of the audio content beingpresented at the first loudspeaker.
 22. The system of claim 21, whereinthe touch sensor comprises a piezo material that is mechanicallyintegrated with an enclosure of the second loudspeaker.
 23. The systemof claim 21, wherein the touch sensor is integrated with a device havinga primary purpose that is unrelated to media presentation and/or usertracking.